Colorado’s Safer-at-Home Order Begins Monday

Colorado Governor Jared Polis spoke this week about what Safer-at-Home will mean for Coloradans. It begins officially on Monday.

The previous Stay-at-Home Order lifts Monday, April 27.

'What will April 27 look like?' Polis said. 'Not terribly different than April 26. I know everybody is chomping at the bit. We have to do this right if we want to be successful.'

Polis elaborated on his plan by putting it in skiing terms:

We're on the bunny hill right now. The Safer-at-Home phase is the 'green circle' beginner ski slope. No double-black diamond or terrain park, or we'll be seriously hurt. If we're falling down on the green, it means back to the bunny slope.

Polis said for Colorado to be successful, we need to establish a "face covering-wearing culture."

This isn't a free-for-all, the governor explained, reiterating that there should be no parties or unnecessary travel. 'Resist that temptation for a month,' Polis pleaded.

There's 'No trigger date yet' for bars and restaurants reopening, as a plan for that is still developing.

'May is going to look just the same as April,' Polis said for vulnerable populations. This means staying home unless absolutely necessary is critical for those who are vulnerable.

Staying under the Stay-at-Home order for longer, Polis explained, would only 'hurt will and psychology' of Coloradans for the long haul, while having a negligible impact on needed ICU beds. This is suggesting that this was the time to move forward to the green slope, if you will. The governor also said he wants to see your dry, chapped hands. That means you're doing your part and washing frequently.

Safer at home means:

Still doing what's best

Continuing to stay home as much as possible

Wearing masks in public places (even while walking and biking)

Limiting social interactions

No gatherings of more than ten people

Recreating within ten miles of your home.

Elective procedures begin again

Telecommuting and working from home continues for those who can

Safer at home is not:

A free-for-all

Opportunity to leave the house as much as possible and spread the virus to others